'The Carry On Films: Inside Britain’s Longest Comedy Series' Webinar

Cheeky innuendos, slapstick farce, and an unmistakable British charm — the Carry On films have entertained generations while raising more than a few eyebrows. How did a low-budget comedy series, often derided by critics, become one of the UK’s most enduring cultural phenomena? It’s time to revisit this bawdy yet beloved institution that captured the humor — and contradictions — of an entire era.

Join New York Adventure Club as we dive into the riotous legacy of the Carry On film series, a comedic juggernaut that parodied everything from hospitals to historical epics, and came to define a distinctly British brand of humor.

Led by music historian and theater director Jamie Hayes, our unique virtual experience will include:

• A deep dive into the origins of the Carry On films, and how they grew into the most successful comedy series in British cinema history
• An overview of key themes and hallmarks, including slapstick, double entendres, and fearless genre parodies
• A closer look at notable entries in the franchise, from Carry On Cleo to Carry On Up the Khyber — and why audiences kept coming back for more
• An exploration of the cultural and social contradictions, examining both the beloved humor and the more controversial elements of the films
• Insights into the legacy and lasting appeal of the Carry On films, including attempts to reboot the series and their continued presence in British pop culture

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with Jamie — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.

See you there, virtually!

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***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!

About Jamie Hayes

Jamie has directed many new opera and musical productions, both at home and abroad. After training at Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, he worked for Kent Opera, Glyndebourne Festival and Touring Opera, the Royal Shakespeare Company, English National Opera and the BBC. He has directed many opera productions for leading UK festivals as well as all their most distinguished musical conservatoires. His new productions overseas have appeared as far away as Reykjavik, Malta and Melbourne. Jamie was Associate Director on the original production of the hit musical Miss Saigon in the West End and on Broadway.

In June 2022 Jamie became an accredited lecturer with The Arts Society in the UK. In 2025 he enjoyed a successful lecture tour of Australia with ArtsNational. He has also enjoyed presenting his lectures with major cruise lines around the world.

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Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment